Senator Diane Allen

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Governor Christie has signed legislation sponsored by Senator Diane Allen (R-Burlington) to authorize healthcare providers who are licensed in the state to practice telemedicine in New Jersey.

Gov. Christie signed a law sponsored by Sen. Diane Allen authorizing the use of telemedicine in New Jersey. It takes effect immediately. (Flickr)

“Telemedicine is revolutionizing the way people access healthcare in other states around the country. It’s time for families here to have the same access to this technology,” Senator Allen said. “Many people live too far away or can’t afford to take time off of work to go see a doctor. That can be life-threatening for someone with a chronic condition. In this time of great uncertainty, bringing telemedicine to New Jersey is a sure-fire way to provide affordable, quality care for our residents.”

Under the law, telemedicine providers must meet with people electronically face to face or use “store and forward” technology to allow patients to electronically send images, diagnostics, data and medical records. A combination of audio, store forward and live, interactive video must be used unless, after a thorough review of patient records, the provider concludes that a patient’s needs can be met with audio and store- forward alone.

S-291 will also require health insurance companies to provide coverage and payment for services provided through telemedicine at least at the same rate as services provided in-person. Providers would not be able to issue prescriptions for controlled dangerous substances until an in-person exam has been conducted. The State licensing board would be responsible for adopting rules and regulations for telemedicine.

The law will take effect immediately.

“No one should have to choose between seeing a doctor and paying for groceries,” Senator Allen said. “Authorizing licensed providers to practice telemedicine is a commonsense way to bring the rising cost of healthcare down for millions of new patients. I look forward to seeing our residents take advantage of this innovative and easy way to stay healthy.”